Every summer, we grow red amaranth in our garden to enjoy the freshness and health benefits of this vegetable. It cooks in minutes and very easy to prepare. Commonly known as tambdi (red) bhaji (vegetable) because of its colour. This vegetable has more texture and body than spinach. Healthy and tasty, often referred to as a powerhouse and superfood.
Some of the health benefits of red amaranth are:
Some of the health benefits of red amaranth are:
- Packed with protein and rich in dietary fiber.
- It improves digestion and lowers cholesterol levels.
- High in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
- The leaves are also known to prevent hair loss and premature greying.
- Also, used for treating skin conditions like eczema and acne.
- Works as an effective remedy for anemia.
Steps on how to grow Red Amaranth:
- The plant grows well in a moist, rich, well-drained soil. Prepare the soil by tilling, adding compost, sheep and cow's manure.
- Red amaranth needs plenty of sunlight and tolerant to heat.
- Seeds of amaranth are extremely small (like the size of poppy seeds) so disperse them sparingly and lightly rake them in the soil.
- Drizzle with water and continue to feed them on a regular basis.
- The seeds will sprout in a week or two. Plants can be harvested once they are one to two feet tall.
- While harvesting, cut the stalks few inches above the soil. The plant will continue to grow and produce fresh leaves all summer long. Alternatively, the plants can be uprooted. (We needed room for other plants to grow so uprooted them.)
- Leave some plants to flower. Once the flowers brown or start to dry up, store in paper bags. When completely dry, gently crush flowers inside the bag to release the seeds.
- If flowers drop seeds into the soil, amaranth plants will grow the following year.
- Seeds can be purchased from amazon.
- Recipes for Tambdi Bhaji (Savoury Red Amaranth) and Red Amaranth With Prawns, click here.
See More Gardening Posts
